Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 12/24/2005

Question
Dear Ms. Erwin,

I totally understand what you are trying to tell me. It is just that I dislike strength training style. All of activities I engage are mostly cardio-wised workouts.

My weekly activities are mostly the same. On Monday to Friday, I alternate 3 different kickboxing workouts. On Saturday, I play with dogs at Oakland Animal Shelter, so I have a chance to run until sweating like a storm. On Sunday, I do nothing but stay home and watch movies.

With that intensity of exercising, do you think that I am overtraining myself?

In long term, do you think that I should change my routine?

I do not intend to argue with you, but my kickboxing workouts use many twists and kicks, so I feel that I gradually increase flexibility. However, I am not sure if that is enough when I age. Do you think that I should do some more stretching?

Please understand that I do not want to question you. I just want to acknowledge myself in fitness. I always hear many researchers say that all activities can improve flexibility, strength and stamina. The most importance is finding an activities I enjoy, and I really enjoy cardio-based workouts, especially kickboxing workouts. So, the more I do them, the more I hook with them. Nevertheless, I understand that fitness should be balanced, and that is why I ask you.

Thank you very much, Ms. Erwin

Answer
Just continue to do what you are doing because that is always better than not doing any kind of workout.  I don't know how old you are now or what your concerns are re: aging.  If you stay active and don't burn out that will keep you healthy.  Try to be balanced and what I am hearing from you is that you want acknowledgement for what you are already doing.  Fitness is about movement and health (body and mind).  
It might help to do some reading/research but overall it seems that you are doing what you have passion for.
Linda